How do I apply?

Here’s a guide to the building consent application process, covering:

If you’d like help at any stage of the application process, please get in touch. We’ll discuss your project and the building consent requirements, check whether you need resource consent, and guide you through each step of the way.

Before you apply

If you’ve never applied for a building consent before, you may find it a time-consuming and complex process. We recommend that you:

ask a professional – such as an architect, engineer or builder – to prepare the design, drawings, specifications and documentation for you. This is the approach that most people take

get in touch with us to arrange a pre-application meeting. We’ll work through your project and what you want to achieve, and provide you with information and advice on how to apply

You might also like to talk to our Eco Design Advisor. They offer free, independent advice on how to make your home as warm, dry and healthy as it can be – and some great tips on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. You can request an appointment right now.

And remember, we’re here to help. Get in touch and we’ll discuss your project and the building consent requirements, check whether you need resource consent, and guide you through the application process.

If you’d like help with any of these steps, please get in touch. We’ll discuss your project and the building consent requirements, check whether you need resource consent, and guide you through the application process.

Step 1: Complete and sign the relevant documents

Check that you have:

completed all the required documents and checklists accurately and in full

signed and dated the documents where required

gathered together any other required forms, plans, specifications and supporting documents.

Step 4: Lodge the application

Attach the documents or folders you’ve prepared. If they’re large files, use the ‘Large file/folder Applet’ to upload them. If you don’t have Java installed, you’ll be prompted to install it as part of the process.

In the message box, remember to let us know how you’d like to receive your building consent documents: